Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main function of humoral immunity in the adaptive immune system?

Accepted Answer

It produces antibodies that combat extracellular antigens.

Question 2

A patient is exposed to a toxin for the first time. Which immunoglobulin class is most likely to be produced first in response?

Accepted Answer

IgM

Question 3

Which of the following statements about T cells is correct?

Accepted Answer

They mature in the thymus and recognize antigenic peptides presented by phagocytic cells.

Question 4

Which cytokine is primarily responsible for promoting inflammation and is involved in autoimmune diseases?

Accepted Answer

TNF-\alpha

Question 5

A newborn receives antibodies from its mother through breast milk. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Naturally acquired passive immunity

Question 6

Which immunoglobulin class is most abundant in serum and can cross the placenta to protect the fetus?

Accepted Answer

IgG

Question 7

A small molecule that is not antigenic by itself but can elicit an immune response when attached to a carrier protein is called a:

Accepted Answer

Hapten

Question 8

Which of the following best explains why IgA is important in mucosal immunity?

Accepted Answer

It is found in secretions and prevents microbial attachment to mucous membranes.

Question 9

Which of the following is a correct pairing of cytokine and its primary function?

Accepted Answer

IL-4: Stimulates class switching to IgE

Question 10

A laboratory test detects high levels of IgE in a patient’s serum. This finding is most likely associated with which condition?

Accepted Answer

Type I hypersensitivity (allergy)

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the role of the variable (V) region of an antibody?

Accepted Answer

It binds specifically to epitopes on antigens.

Question 12

A patient receives an injection of preformed antibodies after exposure to rabies. This is an example of:

Accepted Answer

Artificially acquired passive immunity

Question 13

Which immunoglobulin class is most effective at causing agglutination of pathogens due to its pentameric structure?

Accepted Answer

IgM

Question 14

Which of the following best describes the difference between humoral and cellular immunity?

Accepted Answer

Humoral immunity involves B cells and antibodies, while cellular immunity involves T cells and cytokines.

Question 15

Which of the following is a real-life example of artificially acquired active immunity?

Accepted Answer

Receiving a vaccine for measles

Question 16

Which immunoglobulin class is primarily found on the surface of B cells and may play a role in initiating immune responses?

Accepted Answer

IgD

Question 17

A patient with a genetic defect cannot produce the J chain protein. Which immunoglobulin class would be most affected?

Accepted Answer

IgM

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why overproduction of cytokines can be dangerous?

Accepted Answer

It can cause a cytokine storm, resulting in excessive inflammation and tissue damage.

Question 19

Which of the following is NOT a typical target for cellular (cell-mediated) immunity?

Accepted Answer

Extracellular toxins

Question 20

A laboratory technician observes that a patient’s serum contains high levels of IgA. Which of the following is the most likely explanation?

Accepted Answer

The patient is producing antibodies in mucosal secretions such as saliva or tears.

Adaptive Immunity: Specific Defenses of the Host

Study Guide - Practice Questions